Carwin is one of three brothers.  He received a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines as well as a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Technology from Western State College.

Carwin wrestled in college, becoming a two-time NCAA Division II Wrestling National Runner-Up Heavyweight in 1996–97 and the NCAA II Wrestling Heavyweight National Champion in 1999. He was also a two-time All-American in football for Western State.

Carwin is a full time engineer and is a volunteer wrestling coach at the University of Northern Colorado.

Carwin won his first eight fights and became champion of the Ring of Fire before signing with the UFC. Carwin has been undefeated since then. He trains with Jacksons Submission fighting & Grudge Fight Team. He fights out of Denver and trains at the Grudge Training Center with Top MMA coach Trevor Wittman.